Reports are out that New York Knicks head coach Derek Fisher is currently fond of rookie point guard Jerian Grant's play in the preseason enough for him to consider this year's 19th overall pick as the potential starter of the squad. Does it mean that Jose Calderon may be on the trading block?
Sports World Report noted that the 34-year-old, 10-year pro was still Fisher's starter during the Knicks' preseason games, but it is Grant who had been getting the most minutes because of his stellar play on both ends of the court.
The 23-year-old rookie is thriving within the triangle offense mainly because of his superior athleticism and is actually said to be looking more comfortable in the system as compared to the much older Calderon.
It was also reported that Langston Galloway's backup job is safe as he is still the preferred primary substitute of either of the two, which could mean that the Knicks may finally be ready to deal the Spanish hotshot during the regular season.
The Los Angeles Clippers had been rumored to be interested in trading disgruntled shooting guard Jamal Crawford for Calderon all throughout the summer, and Doc Rivers and his crew could revisit the idea if New York would dangle the Spaniard to other NBA teams.
Back in August, SB Nation had mentioned the Knicks' intention to bring back the two-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year awardee to help shore up their thin small forward-shooting guard lineup, and this may be the opportunity they are looking for.
If Grant continues his superb play in the triangle during the season, then Fisher may discover that he does not need Calderon anymore, prompting the trade with the Clippers that could be a "win-win" situation for both teams.